Porto: Santiago de Compostela and Valença do Minho Day Trip
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Cross the border into Spain and retrace part of St James Way – a sacred route followed by centuries of pilgrims – on a visit to Santiago de Compostela from Porto. On this memorable day trip, explore Compostela's famous cathedral and the city's UNESCO World-Heritage-listed Old Town. Back in Portugal, pay a visit to Valença do Minho, dominated with a fortress of two towers and a double great wall projected in the Vouban style during the return ride to Porto.
Available options
Low Season - without Lunch
High Season - without lunch
April - October
What's included
Professional guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Cross the border between Portugal and Spain to reach the city of Santiago de Compostela.
2
Discover one of the routes that take pilgrims for centuries to the city of Santiago de Compostela, the famous Camino de Santiago. Seen as a kind of affirmation of the Catholic faith and devotion of those who walk it, this road connects various points of Europe to this Spanish city. An incredible network that serves as a pilgrimage to the sanctuary of the apostle Santiago in the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, Galicia.
3
Stop 3
Finally, we can enjoy the stunning Santiago de Compostela Cathedral - the ultimate goal! - for many pilgrims from all over the world. In Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque style, this Cathedral is a true landmark, not only in Galicia, but also throughout Spain.
4
Have free time to enjoy your lunch at the historic area of Santiago de Compostela. This typical area, full of history and traditions, is considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
5
Stop 5
You just had a great experience in Santiago. Now say goodbye to Spain and return to Portugal: there are still plenty of places to discover on this full day tour! We will head towards Valença do Minho, an iconic city in northern Portugal of a unique and respected work of art: the Heart of Viana, in Portuguese filigree. This "Heart of Viana" is the true medal of Portugal and has a strong importance in the region of Minho. A golden heart that will surprise you.
6
Discover the city's biggest tourist attraction: the Fortress, built to protect the village from Spanish attacks. An impressive medieval structure with two strong towers and a large double wall designed in the Vauban style, a military architect. You will have enough time to explore the incredible Fortress before safely returning to Porto. Take as many photos as you want and save this tour forever in your mind!
What's not included
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Hotel Pick up and drop off
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
164 reviews
5★
121
4★
25
3★
9
2★
5
1★
4
Tripadvisor
4.8
16 reviews
5★
14
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
There is no bathroom on board the bus
Dress code is smart casual
The tours may be changed without prior notice
A moderate amount of walking is involved
Meeting point
Our Tourism office is located on the top of Rua Mouzinho da Silveira door number 352-354, near São Bento Train Station.
Important notes
-Please be at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to departure time
About Porto
Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is a vibrant coastal city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. With its picturesque Ribeira district, historic bridges, and world-famous port wine cellars, Porto offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and modern charm.
Top Attractions
Ribeira District
The Ribeira district is the historic heart of Porto, known for its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for anyone coming to Porto.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore
Livraria Lello
Livraria Lello is one of the most famous bookstores in the world, known for its stunning neo-Gothic interior and as an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series.
Cultural
1 hour
€6 (includes a book voucher)
Clérigos Tower
The Clérigos Tower is a iconic Baroque bell tower that offers panoramic views of Porto. Climbing the 240 steps to the top is well worth the effort for the breathtaking views.
Architecture
1 hour
€5
Dom Luís I Bridge
This double-deck iron bridge spans the Douro River, connecting Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. The upper deck offers stunning views of the river and the city.
Architecture
30 minutes
Free
Port Wine Cellars
Vila Nova de Gaia is home to many of Porto's famous port wine cellars, where you can learn about the history of port wine and enjoy tastings.
Cultural
2-3 hours
€10-€30
Must-Try Local Dishes
Francesinha
A hearty sandwich made with layers of meat, covered in melted cheese and a special sauce, served with fries.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat and dairy
Bacalhau à Brás
A traditional Portuguese dish made with shredded cod, onions, potatoes, and eggs.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish and eggs
Tripas à Moda do Porto
A traditional Porto dish made with tripe, beans, and spices, slow-cooked to perfection.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat
Pastéis de Nata
Delicious custard tarts with a flaky pastry crust, often dusted with cinnamon or powdered sugar.
Dessert
Contains dairy and eggs
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Serra do Pilar
Kayaking on the Douro River
Sunbathing at Praia do Castelo do Queijo
Enjoying a port wine tasting
Visiting the Livraria Lello
Exploring the Ribeira district
Swimming at Praia do Castelo do Queijo
Boat tours on the Douro River
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and plenty of sunshine. It's ideal for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities.
18°C to 28°C
64°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Western European Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Porto is generally a safe city for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in tourist areas and on public transportation.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in tourist areas and on public transportation
- • Be cautious when using taxis, and always ensure the meter is running or agree on a price before starting your journey
- • Avoid walking alone at night in quiet or poorly lit areas
Getting there
By air
- Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport • 11 km (7 miles) from city center
By train
Porto Campanhã, Porto São Bento
By bus
Porto Bus Terminal (Terminal de Camionagem de Porto)
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system is efficient and easy to use, with six lines connecting major points of interest.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Ribeira
Bolhão
Foz do Douro
Miguel Bombarda
Day trips
Braga
50 km (31 miles) • Full day
Braga is a historic city known for its beautiful churches, monasteries, and the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary.
Guimarães
40 km (25 miles) • Full day
Guimarães is a historic city known as the birthplace of Portugal. It's home to a well-preserved medieval center and the stunning Guimarães Castle.
Douro Valley
80 km (50 miles) • Full day
The Douro Valley is a stunning wine region known for its terraced vineyards, port wine cellars, and scenic boat tours.
Festivals
São João Festival • June 23-24
Festa de São João • June 24
Porto Wine Festival • September
Pro tips
- Visit the Livraria Lello bookstore early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and long queues
- Take a port wine tasting tour to learn about the history of port wine and sample a variety of wines from different cellars
- Explore the historic center of Porto on foot, as many of its narrow streets and charming squares are best discovered by walking
- Try the local cuisine, such as Francesinha, Bacalhau à Brás, and Tripas à Moda do Porto, at traditional restaurants and cafes
- Take a day trip to the Douro Valley to see the stunning vineyards, visit port wine cellars, and enjoy a scenic boat tour on the Douro River
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
